Six Signs of a Fad Diet
Want to lose weight but are confused by numerous books that promise the latest diet breakthroughs? Here are some tips from the American Heart Association (AHA) that can help you recognize a fad diet.
Say NO to diets that advocate:
- Magic or miracle foods - Foods don't burn or melt fat away. There are no "super foods" that can undo the long term effects of overeating and lack of activity.
- Very Rapid weight loss - Sound weight loss plans aim for losing no more than one to two pounds per week. Studies show that gradual weight loss increases your success for keeping it off permanently.
- No exercise - Simple activities like walking or riding a bike are important tools to losing and maintaining weight loss. Yet many "fad" diets don't emphasize these easy changes. An increase in any daily activities that fit your lifestyle will help you to burn more calories.
- Bizarre quantities - Foods that are emphasized or others not allowed, such as unlimited amounts of cabbage soup or grapefruit; or avoiding dairy or carbohydrate -rich foods, should raise concern. Forbidding certain foods or entire food groups, in addition to being unhealthy, may increase the likelihood that you will cheat, binge or just give up on the diet.
- Specific food combinations - Eating the "wrong" combination of foods does not cause them to produce toxins or turn to fat. There is no scientific proof that combining or sequencing specific foods enhances weight loss.
- Rigid menus - Limiting food choices and adhering to specific eating times is a daunting, unpleasant task. Rather, look for a plan that you can realistically follow for a lifetime - one that emphasizes a variety of grain foods, vegetables, fruits, lean meats and low-fat dairy products.
Source: Wheat Foods Council
